Early works to commence on the transformation of Brisbane Showgrounds
Within weeks after this year’s Ekka celebrations, early works will commence on the transformation of the Brisbane Showgrounds into a legacy infrastructure for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The showgrounds at Bowen Hills will become the site of the Brisbane Athletes Village, which is set to be the biggest with the capacity to accommodate more than 10,000 athletes and officials during the Olympic Games as well as over 5,000 during the Paralympic Games.
“The early works will fire the starter’s gun on the Brisbane Showgrounds’ transformation for 2032 and beyond.
“Brisbane will be centre stage for the Games, and this investment to rebuild the Main Arena will deliver a new life to the Ekka which will be enjoyed for generations to come.
“The Games are a once in a generation opportunity, and through the 2032 Delivery Plan, we are ensuring that every dollar we spend delivers a lasting legacy for Queenslanders,” Premier David Crisafulli said.
“Following this year’s Ekka, the heritage-listed John MacDonald and Ernest Baynes grandstands will be restored and upgraded to provide much improved accessibilty.
“Design works will also begin for the 20,000-seat Main Arena upgrade.
“We’re excited to share artist’s impressions of what that could look like, and the legacy the Games will leave for Queenslanders,” RNA Chief Executive Brendan Christou said.
Artist's impression of the upgraded Main Arena (source: Delivering 2032 and Beyond)
In addition to the athlete village, the Brisbane Showgrounds Main Arena will also be upgraded to facilitate the growth of the precinct’s key entertainment and events capability while also giving the iconic Brisbane Ekka an even brighter future.
The announcement of early works commencing at the showgrounds follows the beginning of procurement for the new Brisbane Stadium at Victoria Park precinct.
The integrated Master Plan for Victoria Park precinct includes the Brisbane Showgrounds and surrounds to deliver a world-class hub for recreation, events, entertainment, and lifestyle beyond the 2032 Games.
“Through the Games legacy, the Crisafulli Government is creating opportunities for more housing supply, better transport, generational infrastructure that strengthens our Queensland communities.
“Our Games commitment is part of the largest infrastructure investment in the history of Queensland – $116.8 billion.
“We’re getting on with the job of delivering a Games legacy that every Queenslander will be proud of for generations to come,” Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said.
“The Ekka showcases the best of Queensland, bringing country and city together.
“The Brisbane Athletes Village project means Ekka visitors and exhibitors will be able to enjoy upgraded facilities for generations to come.
“This includes upgrades to the Main Arena and improved accessibility across the site,” Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said.
Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Delivering 2032 and Beyond (1, 2)
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